Living Purposefully

As we approach this special day, let’s take a moment to remember that we each celebrate it differently, and that is wonderful! There are many ways to make it memorable, even if for you it might be a difficult time of year. If you are feeling anxious, stressed, or upset about this holiday, rest assured that you are not alone. I encourage you to embrace your feelings, and know that you will make it through.

With this day being so close, take a moment and realize that no matter how your day turns out, it will be okay.

1. Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.

2. The way you choose to celebrate it is just right.

3. However you are able to feed your family is just fine.

4. The number of presents under the tree does not make or break the day.

5. Your efforts will be appreciated, even if you feel like they won’t be.

8. When you are unable to give gifts to all the people you want to give them to, they will understand.

9. One day out of the year should not be filled with such a high level of stress that it makes you feel inadequate.

10. You are enough. Your effort to celebrate Christmas is enough. You are not defined by the situation you’re currently in, especially if you are in a rough circumstance.

I personally have struggled in all of the above mentioned areas at one time or another. Society puts a lot of pressure on people to go above and beyond to make Christmas about things, stuff and what we can buy to make it special. I disagree completely with that!

Please know that I don’t think there is anything wrong with gift giving. It is a blessing for the giver, and the receiver. I’m just saying that it is easy to get caught up in trying to show love by what you can buy and give to someone. Instead of getting stuck in this world’s view of what it means to give, let’s think about how we can give of ourselves when we are unable to give “things.”

Make a phone call, write a letter, create a hand-made gift, bake a treat, spend time with a friend, organize a family get-together, babysit for a friend, sit with a loved one who is lonely, volunteer as a family, or simply be together and take time to give thanks for all that you already have.

However you spend this holiday, I pray that you will feel joy and peace as you reflect on each and every blessing you’ve experienced. Merry Christmas!

About Tammy

I am a happily married mommy of three, who is living my life in hopes of making a positive difference in the world. I will share my ups and downs with you all to encourage and support you along your journey. Live with purpose, and choose joy!

Pouches' Community Corner

Trains, Planes and Automobiles Kids' Race Series

From a small beginning, Cathy Weise of the Ron Rosner YMCA has developed an ambitious three-race series for kids for this summer, with the help of The Great Train Race, Shannon Airport, Dominion Raceway & Entertainment, the Fredericksburg Area Service League and Race Timing Unlimited.

Great Train Race Director Jennifer Taylor was one of the first on board.